One last thing to keep in mind: if you don't qualify for any extensions, you might be eligible to open a new claim after 12 months from the start date of your original claim, assuming you've earned enough wages in the meantime. This isn't an extension but a completely new benefit year. Also, while this isn't widely known, if your industry has been affected by any trade agreements, you might qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), which provides additional benefits and training opportunities. Good luck with your call tomorrow - hope you get through and receive good news about the training extension!

@Hugo Kass - I just went through this exact situation in January! A few additional tips that might help: 1) When you call EDD, try calling right at 8am when they open - I had better luck getting through then. 2) If you do qualify for the training extension, ask about "bridge benefits" - some people don't know EDD can sometimes provide a small payment while your TE application is being processed. 3) For immediate help with rent, check if your county has emergency rental assistance programs - many still have COVID relief funds available. 4) Look into your local One-Stop Career Centers (America's Job Center) - they often have emergency assistance and can help you navigate the training programs. Don't give up, there are more options than it initially seems!

my cousin works at EDD and says they're way behind on everything right now just FYI

Just wanted to add - I'm also an adjunct (at a private college) and went through this same classification confusion last year. Definitely go with "Private Employer" as others have said. One thing that helped me was having all my employment documentation ready before starting the application - pay stubs, contract letters, etc. The system might ask for verification later and having everything organized made the process smoother. Also, if you taught at multiple institutions, you'll need to list each one separately as different employers. Good luck with your claim!

PSA: If you're having trouble with your claim, contact your local assemblymember's office. They can often help expedite things!

Same situation here! Just went through this last month. First thing - log into your EDD account and check your benefit year end date. If it hasn't passed yet, you might get an automatic extension. If it has passed, you'll need to file a new claim. Pro tip: even if your balance shows $0, keep certifying every two weeks - sometimes extensions kick in automatically and you don't want to miss any weeks. The whole process is confusing but don't lose hope!

Just wanted to update that I won my appeal in a similar situation. The key was having detailed medical documentation that specifically stated my family member required my personal care and a doctor's note explaining why my work schedule was incompatible with providing that care. The judge was actually quite understanding once all the medical evidence was presented. Good luck with your appeal!

I'm so sorry you're going through this difficult situation. As someone who has navigated the EDD system before, I want to emphasize a few key points that others have touched on: 1. **Documentation is everything** - Get a comprehensive letter from your daughter's neurologist that specifically states she requires your full-time care due to her autism and seizures. The letter should detail why her condition makes it impossible for you to maintain a traditional work schedule. 2. **Frame your appeal correctly** - Focus exclusively on your daughter's medical needs and care requirements, not on the financial aspects or desire for better pay. EDD views "voluntary quit for better wages" very differently than "voluntary quit for compelling family circumstances." 3. **Timeline matters** - Document exactly when her condition worsened and how this coincided with your inability to continue working your scheduled shifts. Show that this was a medical necessity, not a choice. 4. **Don't give up** - Many initial denials get overturned on appeal when proper documentation is provided. The fact that you're a healthcare worker who understands medical needs may actually work in your favor during the hearing. Also, definitely look into IHSS as someone mentioned - you might be able to get paid for providing her care while you search for more flexible employment. Wishing you the best with your appeal!

One important thing to remember: Even if you lose your second level appeal, you still have options. You can request an Overpayment Waiver if repayment would cause extraordinary hardship and your overpayment wasn't due to fraud. There's a specific form for this (DE 1446W). Many people don't know about this option.

I'm in a similar situation and just wanted to share some encouragement. I'm currently caring for my disabled spouse and had to refuse a job that required travel 50% of the time. EDD initially said I should have taken it, but I won my first level appeal by emphasizing that California law specifically protects caregivers under the "suitable work" provisions. The key is showing that your caregiving duties aren't just a preference - they're a necessity that makes certain work schedules genuinely unsuitable. Document everything about your mother's care needs and your role as her sole caregiver. The fact that it was night shifts makes your case even stronger since that would literally prevent you from providing necessary care. Don't give up - the second level appeal is definitely worth pursuing, especially with the specific legal arguments others have mentioned here.